For over 13 years, the City of Plantation has provided its equestrian community a place to enjoy their lifestyle and love for horses. The equestrian-friendly town is proud of their Equestrian Center which is tucked within Volunteer Park.
The Plantation Equestrian Center features a picturesque, sub-tropical setting with two stables that house 96 stalls, 3 show rings, 2 practice rings, multiple paddock areas, seating for approximately 300 spectators, concession stand, restrooms, and on-site management. Additionally, the 85-acre park includes beautiful landscaped boardwalks, bridle paths, nature trails, wetlands, playgrounds, auditory sculptures, and plenty of recreational areas.
Since its inception, thousands of visitors have appreciated the weekend horse shows and exhibitions. This month, the Center will host two separate shows. The Heritage Horse Show on June 9th-10th and The Heritage Jump the Moon Horse Show on June 23rd.
For those wanting to discover and learn more about horses, Plantation Pony Camp provides an exciting introduction to the world of ponies and horses. The 5-day a week summer program starting June 11th offers an experience for young riders to learn breeds of horses, the basics of western riding, how to care for horses, and how to be safe around them.
“I have been a horse lover since I could walk and talk. I drove my parents crazy wanting a horse my whole childhood. I was 15 when I got my first horse and 48 years later still love them,” expressed Camp Director Kathy Carter. “Being around the horses teaches kids responsibility, kindness, and compassion. I was thrilled when the City of Plantation asked me to run their summer pony camp program.”
The children spend the first part of their day preparing the horses to ride, this includes brushing and tacking them up before riding around the horse trails. After riding for a few hours, everyone takes a lunch break and has some time for water play before riding again. Space is limited as the groups are kept small to maintain a safe, secure, and friendly environment.
“I love my job, working with the kids and the horses. It is an incredible feeling at the end of the day when a child comes up and hugs me and tells me they had so much fun, and this was the best day ever. How many people get that satisfaction from their job like that?” added Carter.
The Plantation Equestrian Center is located at 1451 NW 118th Avenue, Plantation, 33322. For more information, please visit PlantationPonyCamp.com and HeritageHorseShow.com.
